Britain’s reduction in foreign aid has been described as a boon to China and Russia in their attempts to disrupt a divided United Nations, according to a report from the Commons committee. The committee has urged the Government to reinstate the aid budget and support for international organizations to avoid creating opportunities for the UK’s rivals.
Earlier this year, the Government announced a decrease in aid spending to 0.3% of national income to allocate more funds to defense. This decision followed a previous government move to lower the aid budget from 0.7% to 0.5% of national income, a target that was legally binding.
Furthermore, funding for the Foreign Office department responsible for multilateral institutions, including the UN, has been slashed by 65% from 2024/25 to 2025/26. Committee chair Dame Emily Thornberry expressed concern that these cuts play into the hands of China and Russia, who aim to exert negative influence within the UN.
The report emphasizes the importance of the UK using its respected reputation to hold China and Russia accountable for their actions within international institutions. The committee highlighted the need for the UK to be more assertive in addressing abuses by permanent UN Security Council members.
As the United Nations General Assembly convenes in New York, the UK is expected to formally recognize Palestinian statehood, signaling the continued significance of the UN. The committee warned of growing tensions and polarization within the UN Security Council and urged the UK to resist efforts to undermine the organization.
In a call for stronger commitment to a rules-based international order, the committee emphasized the necessity of strategic multilateralism. The MPs stressed the urgency of pushing back against attempts to weaken the UN and maintaining a firm stance against disruptive forces.
The report sets the stage for a critical week at the UN, with the assembly marking its 80th anniversary. It underscores the need for the UK to champion the principles of multilateralism and uphold the rules-based international system in the face of escalating global challenges.